Families in historic Saltaire were today celebrating a cash boost from English Heritage to improve their listed homes.

The 800 Victorian stone houses in the famous village were originally provided for workers of Sir Titus Salt's historic textile mill.

Because they are all listed, owners have to replace doors and windows and architectural features with products which replicate their Victorian heritage.

Bradford Council has already helped owners of about half the properties to restore them.

But many people are still struggling financially to restore and improve their properties.

Britain's biggest conservation body announced today that it was awarding £60,000 to Saltaire over the next three years. The funding will be matched with a further £60,000 from Bradford Council.

It comes as Saltaire bids to become a world heritage site and is included in a tentative list of contenders.

Today Anne Heald, owner of the tourist information and gift shop in Victoria Road, said: "I think it is absolutely wonderful news. I am sure people in Saltaire are going to be absolutely delighted. More and more younger people are coming in who want to improve their houses."

Councillor David Herdson, chairman of the multi-agency Saltaire Project team, said: "It is important recognition of our cultural heritage."

Project co-ordinator and Council heritage manager Steve Bateman said it meant all property owners in the village would qualify for grants needed towards work on their properties.

Shipley MP Chris Leslie said: "It will enhance what is already there. Saltaire has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years."

Shipley East Labour ward councillor Phil Thornton said it was a huge boost for the village in its bid for world recognition.

The funding is part of a £570,000 package announced by English Heritage today to help revitalise run down urban and rural areas across Yorkshire.

The conservation body says Salts Mill is probably the finest example in Europe of an integrated textile mill with its associated housing and public buildings.

It says although the future of Salts Mill, New Mill, the school and institute are now secure, much can still be achieved in the village in the run up to a decision by UNESCO on the bid for world status.